Itinerary

Hokkaido is a fantastic destination for backcountry skiing and has a vibrant nightlife scene, including some great spots for the LGBTQ+ community. Here’s a fun and adventurous 5-day itinerary that balances your love for skiing with some nightlife exploration. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Sapporo

Morning:

• Arrive at New Chitose Airport and take the train to Sapporo. The journey is about 40 minutes and offers beautiful views of the countryside.
• Check into your hotel. I recommend staying in the Susukino area, which is lively and close to nightlife.

Afternoon:

• Grab a delicious bowl of Sapporo ramen for lunch at a local ramen shop. You can’t visit Sapporo without trying its famous miso ramen!

Evening:

• Explore Susukino, the entertainment district. Start your night at Bar Dandy, a cozy gay bar known for its friendly atmosphere and great cocktails. It’s a perfect place to meet locals and fellow travelers.

## Day 2: Skiing at Niseko

Morning:

• Early breakfast and then take a bus or train to Niseko, which is about 2-3 hours away. Niseko is famous for its powder snow and stunning backcountry skiing.

Afternoon:

• Hit the slopes! Spend the day skiing or snowboarding. If you’re into backcountry skiing, consider hiring a guide to explore the off-piste areas safely.

Evening:

• After a day on the slopes, unwind at one of the local onsens (hot springs) to relax those muscles.
• For dinner, try a local izakaya (Japanese pub) for some hearty food.

Night:

• Check out The Barn, a popular bar in Niseko that often has a mixed crowd and a welcoming vibe.

## Day 3: More Skiing and Nightlife in Sapporo

Morning:

• Another day of skiing! You can either stay in Niseko for more backcountry adventures or return to Sapporo and hit the nearby ski resorts like Teine or Kokusai.

Afternoon:

• If you’re back in Sapporo, take a break from skiing and visit the Sapporo Beer Museum to learn about the history of beer in Japan and enjoy some tastings.

Evening:

• Head back to Susukino for dinner. Try some fresh seafood at a local sushi restaurant.

Night:

• Visit Ginger, a popular gay bar in Sapporo known for its lively atmosphere and drag shows. It’s a great place to dance and socialize!

## Day 4: Day Trip to Otaru

Morning:

• Take a train to Otaru, a charming port city about 30 minutes from Sapporo. The city is famous for its beautiful canal and glassworks.

Afternoon:

• Stroll along the canal, visit the Otaru Music Box Museum, and enjoy some fresh sushi for lunch. Otaru is known for its seafood!

Evening:

• Return to Sapporo and have a relaxing dinner. You might want to try some local specialties like Genghis Khan (grilled lamb).

Night:

• Check out Sapporo’s LGBTQ+ scene at Bar K, a welcoming spot with a laid-back vibe. It’s a great place to meet new friends and enjoy some drinks.

## Day 5: Last Day and Departure

Morning:

• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and do some last-minute shopping in Sapporo. Don’t forget to pick up some souvenirs like Shiroi Koibito cookies!

Afternoon:

• If time allows, visit the Sapporo TV Tower for panoramic views of the city or take a stroll through Odori Park.

Evening:

• Head back to New Chitose Airport for your departure. If you have time, grab a final meal at the airport’s food court, which has a variety of delicious options.

Tips:

• Make sure to check the weather and snow conditions for the best skiing experience.
• Always have cash on hand, as some places may not accept credit cards.
• Respect local customs and be mindful of the culture, especially in smaller towns.

I hope this itinerary helps you have an amazing time in Hokkaido! Enjoy the powder, the nightlife, and all the wonderful experiences this beautiful region has to offer! 🏂🌈